User Knowledge Research Articles

Knowledge management in the care for people with intellectual disabilities during the COVID‐19 pandemic

AbstractThe study aimed to gain insight into knowledge management in the intellectual disabilities (ID) care sector during the COVID‐19 pandemic. We explored and described how knowledge producers, intermediaries, and knowledge users experienced knowledge management during this crisis situation, the responses to the specific knowledge needs in the ID‐care sector, and changes in roles and collaboration during this period. Twenty‐five individual in‐depth semi‐structured interviews were conducted with knowledge producers, intermediaries, and knowledge users in the Dutch ID‐care sector. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted. Three key themes were identified: (1) knowledge needs during the COVID‐19 pandemic, (2) experiences with knowledge management, and (3) roles and collaboration in knowledge management. There was an urgent need for specific ID‐related knowledge and how to translate available evidence for the general population into ID‐care settings. In knowledge management, the focus was on knowledge production and exchange, with validation and application receiving less attention. Within stakeholder groups, collaboration and knowledge exchange were intensified by existing or new knowledge infrastructures. Between stakeholder groups, knowledge producers and users created short lines to exchange needs and produce knowledge. This paper provides unique insights into knowledge management in the Dutch ID‐care sector during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Implications are discussed to improve future knowledge management processes. Support with knowledge validation and local knowledge infrastructures (complementary to centralized national knowledge infrastructures) help to assess the reliability and usefulness of knowledge and improve its use in practice during future pandemic‐related crisis situations.

Decision support systems for antibiotic prescription in hospitals: a survey with hospital managers on factors for implementation.

Inappropriate antimicrobial use, such as antibiotic intake in viral infections, incorrect dosing and incorrect dosing cycles, has been shown to be an important determinant of the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Artificial intelligence-based decision support systems represent a potential solution for improving antimicrobial prescribing and containing antimicrobial resistance by supporting clinical decision-making thus optimizing antibiotic use and improving patient outcomes. The aim of this research was to examine implementation factors of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems for antibiotic prescription in hospitals from the perspective of the hospital managers, who have decision-making authority for the organization. An online survey was conducted between December 2022 and May 2023 with managers of German hospitals on factors for decision support system implementation. Survey responses were analyzed from 118 respondents through descriptive statistics. Survey participants reported openness towards the use of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems for antibiotic prescription in hospitals but little self-perceived knowledge in this field. Artificial intelligence-based decision support systems appear to be a promising opportunity to improve quality of care and increase treatment safety. Along with the Human-Organization-Technology-fit model attitudes were presented. In particular, user-friendliness of the system and compatibility with existing technical structures are considered to be important for implementation. The uptake of decision support systems also depends on the ability of an organization to create a facilitating environment that helps to address the lack of user knowledge as well as trust in and skepticism towards these systems. This includes the training of user groups and support of the management level. Besides, it has been assessed to be important that potential users are open towards change and perceive an added value of the use of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems. The survey has revealed the perspective of hospital managers on different factors that may help to address implementation challenges for artificial intelligence-based decision support systems in antibiotic prescribing. By combining factors of user perceptions about the systems´ perceived benefits with external factors of system design requirements and contextual conditions, the findings highlight the need for a holistic implementation framework of artificial intelligence-based decision support systems.

Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Emergency Departments to Improve Wait Times: Protocol for an Integrative Living Review.

Long wait times in the emergency department (ED) are a major issue for health care systems all over the world. The application of artificial intelligence (AI) is a novel strategy to reduce ED wait times when compared to the interventions included in previous research endeavors. To date, comprehensive systematic reviews that include studies involving AI applications in the context of EDs have covered a wide range of AI implementation issues. However, the lack of an iterative update strategy limits the use of these reviews. Since the subject of AI development is cutting edge and is continuously changing, reviews in this area must be frequently updated to remain relevant. This study aims to provide a summary of the evidence that is currently available regarding how AI can affect ED wait times; discuss the applications of AI in improving wait times; and periodically assess the depth, breadth, and quality of the evidence supporting the application of AI in reducing ED wait times. We plan to conduct a living systematic review (LSR). Our strategy involves conducting continuous monitoring of evidence, with biannual search updates and annual review updates. Upon completing the initial round of the review, we will refine the search strategy and establish clear schedules for updating the LSR. An interpretive synthesis using Whittemore and Knafl's framework will be performed to compile and summarize the findings. The review will be carried out using an integrated knowledge translation strategy, and knowledge users will be involved at all stages of the review to guarantee applicability, usability, and clarity of purpose. The literature search was completed by September 22, 2023, and identified 17,569 articles. The title and abstract screening were completed by December 9, 2023. In total, 70 papers were eligible. The full-text screening is in progress. The review will summarize AI applications that improve ED wait time. The LSR enables researchers to maintain high methodological rigor while enhancing the timeliness, applicability, and value of the review. DERR1-10.2196/52612.

“We Don’t Need to Worry Because We Will Find Food Tomorrow”: Local Knowledge and Drivers of Mangroves as a Food System through a Gendered Lens in West Kalimantan, Indonesia

Indonesia is home to the greatest area of mangroves globally, which provide an essential source of livelihoods and food for millions of people. Despite this, there is a gap in the empirical evidence on the role mangroves play as a food system and the diversity of species they provide. This study aimed to examine mangroves as a gendered food system through the knowledge of community mangrove resource users in West Kalimantan. The research applied a case study approach, using gendered focus group discussions and a participatory seasonal food mapping method in two villages. The research identified participants’ extensive local knowledge of 276 species across 12 food groups sourced seasonally from mangroves primarily for food and as a source of income. Barriers to utilizing mangroves for women were influenced by socio-cultural norms, including but not limited to gender roles and access to fishing infrastructure, while men alone faced political and institutional challenges to mangrove utilisation. This study found that mangroves are an important local food system in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, and argues for greater consideration of the contribution mangroves make to local food and nutrition security. This study contributes to a growing global discourse of gendered food systems and inclusion of local knowledges in natural resource management.

The Influence of In-Store Recycling Signage on Consumer Behavior: A Study of Visual Attention and Usage of Store Drop-Off Bins

This study examined the impact of using three types of in-store signage to educate consumers about packaging recyclability as well as to measure its effectiveness in increasing awareness of a store drop-off recycling method for packaged granola. A total of 67 shoppers were recruited and divided into two groups to shop for granola in a retail store. Group A was not exposed to signage near the granola, while Group B was exposed to the in-store signage comprising shelf strips and aisle invaders with How2Recycle educational information containing messaging about the store drop-off recycling. A store drop-off bin was positioned at the entrance of the testing environment for both groups. The results showed that Group B had a significantly higher total fixation duration (p = 0.02) and fixation count (p = 0.03) than Group A in response to the recycling instructions on the drop-off bin. When comparing the three methods of in-store signage—shelf strips, aisle invaders, and the printed store drop-off bin panels—the shelf strips performed the best with regard to total fixation duration (1.72 s) and fixation count (5.91 counts) and were noticed by the highest percentage of shoppers. The store drop-off bin panels had the best performance with regard to time to first fixation (0.12 s). The aisle invaders had the lowest performance in all three eye tracking key metrics and were noticed by the lowest percentage of participants. These responses illustrate shopper challenges related to plastic recycling. This study demonstrates that recycling information can be effectively provided through strategically positioned in-store signage, especially messaging on shelf strips. While consumers are open to the usage of Store Drop-off Bins, affirming customer knowledge of these processes is essential to develop new consumer recycling habits.

Supportive communication between apprentices and supervisors: development of a digital role play game

PurposeThis paper describes the development of a digital role play game (RPG) designed to help construction apprentices to better communicate with their supervisors about issues with the potential to impact on their physical and psychological health and safety.Design/methodology/approachA participatory approach was adopted to utilise the knowledge and insights of the target users to inform the digital RPG development. Apprentices and supervisors were interviewed to identify characteristics of effective supervisor-apprentice communication, which became the RPG’s learning objectives. The scenarios constructed in the RPG were drawn from lived experiences shared by the apprentices in the interviews. During the development process, consultations were conducted with an advisory committee comprising of apprentices and supervisors to improve the realism of the RPG scenarios.FindingsThree scenarios were developed for the RPG. In each scenario, players are asked to make decisions at various interaction points about how the characters should respond to the unfolding and challenging situations. Scripts were developed for the game, which were acted out and motion captured to animate digital MetaHuman characters embedded in a virtual construction site. Two example situations are introduced in this paper to illustrate the development process.Originality/valueTo our knowledge, the RPG introduced is one of the first applications of digital game-based training in the construction industry. The adoption of a participatory design approach ensures that the game content relates to real-world experiences. The digital RPG is highly interactive and engaging in nature and presents a novel approach to developing “soft” skills in construction.

Navigating the digital landscape: how e-marketing and product attractiveness shape company reputation from a customer-centric perspective

PurposeThis study investigates the influence of e-marketing risks on a Corporation’s Reputation (CR) resulting from its online marketing of products and services.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive analysis was conducted to enhance the company’s e-marketing strategies and bolster its reputation in the market. This involved an investigation into key factors of e-marketing risks, such as customer confidence, product quality, marketing fraud, credibility and customer knowledge and proficiency in using online platforms. These factors have directly impacted the company’s reputation, including aspects such as product/service quality, attractiveness, performance and commitment to social responsibility.FindingsIts finding indicates that customers' lack of confidence in e-marketing has a strong impact on CR, followed by product quality and credibility. The absence of consumer awareness about e-marketing websites and e-fraud frequently negatively affects the organizational reputation.Practical implicationsTo enhance the corporation’s reputation, it is recommended that companies provide educational resources on online shopping, including guidance on using the company’s website, comparing prices and other services that facilitate online purchases. This will help to support the credibility of e-marketing and enhance customer trust.Originality/valueThis research is an exploration of how e-marketing has affected a Corporation’s Reputation. It provides modern knowledge about the dynamic interplay between digital strategies and brand perception. Investigating this relationship provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of consumer trust in the digital age. By analysing the various ways in which e-marketing influences a company’s reputation, innovative approaches can be developed to enhance its online presence and build lasting customer trust.

The economic impact of living with a rare disease for children and their families: a scoping review protocol

Background Rare diseases are an often chronic, progressive and life-limiting group of conditions affecting more than 30 million people in Europe. These diseases are associated with significant direct and indirect costs to a spectrum of stakeholders, ranging from individuals and their families to society overall. Further quantitative research on the economic cost for children and their families living with a rare disease is required as there is little known on this topic. This scoping review aims to document the extent and type of evidence on the economic impacts of living with a rare disease for children and their families. Methods This scoping review will follow the PRISMA-ScR and Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and follow the six-stage methodology for scoping reviews: (1) identifying the research question, (2) identifying relevant studies, (3) study selection, (4) charting the data, (5) collating, summarising and reporting results and (6) knowledge user consultation. Key inclusion criteria have been developed according to the Population-Concept-Context (PCC) framework. The databases EconLit, ABI/Inform, MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus will be searched for possible articles for inclusion. Two independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts of potential articles using a dual review process to ensure all relevant studies are included. All included articles will be assessed using a validated quality appraisal tool. A panel of patient and public involvement representatives experiencing rare diseases and knowledge users will validate the review results. Conclusions This scoping review will map the current literature on the economic impact of paediatric rare diseases to understand how these impacts affect children living with rare diseases and their families. This evidence has the potential to influence policy and future research in this area and will support further research on the economic impact of rare diseases on families.

Student Performance and Perceived Effectiveness and Management of CUSTAR 425 (Customs & Tariff) Course

With the objective to produce efficient workforce, the primordial goal of the Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration (BSCA) educational program is to produce ethical and socially responsible customs broker professionals whose skills and competence conform to, and are compliant with, international standards and best customs practices (CHED, 2017). Prior to putting all the basic and fundamental knowledge of customs into practice, students ought to attend a technical course to review the essential aspects of the customs profession. As such, this course serves as a preparation for students in taking the Customs Broker Licensure Examination (CBLE). At the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS), this is covered under the Customs and Tariff (CUSTAR 425) course. There are essential aspects that may affect the performance of students in engaging with this course: learning materials, and effective professors. Right (2018) reiterated that learning materials are crucial to the success of student achievement while the biggest opportunity for faculty members to impact, inspire, and engage students (Koproske, 2016) is by mapping concrete skills and outcomes to the syllabi in order to help their departments systematically measure and improve the learning experiences of their students over time. This led the researchers to examine the performance, effectiveness and management of the Customs and Tariff course (CUSTAR 425) of AIMS. Applying the tenets of descriptive-survey design, the study gathered data from 198 BSCA students of AIMS who were enrolled in CUSTAR 425 during SY 2015-2016 to 2017-2018. Employing total enumeration as sampling technique, all members of the population were measured in terms of their performance (using final grade as data) in CUSTAR 425, as well as their assessment on the effectiveness and management (utilizing a self-made questionnaire) of the above course. With the aid of SPSS (version 23), data were derived using mean (for grades) and average weighted mean (for effectiveness and management). In terms of performance, majority of the students earned “Good” grades (83 to 85) in CUSTAR 425 while the effectiveness of the course was also favorably rated by the respondents specifically on the following indicators: Course Content (M=4.12) and Course Materials (M=3.94). However, though generally perceived that the Course Timeline aspect have helped them in preparing for the exam, a fraction of students however thought otherwise (neutral and/or disagree) as indicated by the slightly low mean of 3.78. Perhaps, two issues can be raised on this part: insufficient time allotted to complete the course; or, time management skill of students. Lastly, yielding a composite mean of 4.20 (Agree), the students generally agreed that the Customs Administration Department has efficiently managed the CUSTAR 425 course. In consideration of the results, it is recommended that the Customs Administration Department shall strategically set reasonable course timeline to facilitate learning and enhance students’ knowledge. Perhaps, course topics shall also be revisited and calibrated in order to streamline course contents and make fit with the allotted timeline. Students who are planning to take a licensure examination are also advised to enhance their time management skills and learn to properly schedule their school activities especially extending priority to requirements that need more time and attention. Lastly, AIMS, through the Customs Administration Department, shall maintain the good management of the course as majority of its elements was favorably assessed.

Entrepreneurial Orientation and Transformational Leadership for the Development of Innovation Capabilities

Purpose: This paper aims to analyse the impact of entrepreneurial orientation (EO) through the relationship of transformational leadership (TL) for the development of dynamic capabilities (DC) for organisational innovation. Methodology/Approach: Under a qualitative method, and a single case study strategy, data were obtained from interviews with 15 senior managers and leaders of innovation activities; the document review and data triangulation method was used to analyse causality relations proposed in the theoretical framework. Findings: The empirical results confirm that the EO and TL have a positive relationship with the development of innovation capabilities. Findings indicate that risk-taking, proactiveness, assimilation, and exploitation of internal and external knowledge remain the main difficulties in improving innovation capabilities and adaptability in the technological environment. Research Limitation/implication: The present paper gathered data from a specific organisation in the field of EO. The research allowed us to better understand the incidence of EO, TL, and DC  regarding the relationship between variables, and it should be considered a potential source for enhancing innovation management capabilities. Originality/Value of paper: This work is the first that integrates the concepts of EO with other related disciplines into a single case strategy, within a specific entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem context in a large automotive industry.

Negotiating Access to Hard-to-Reach Populations through Institutional Gatekeepers in Social Work Research

Abstract Institutional gatekeepers play an increasingly important role in social work research, and their involvement in the research process is essential for the development of a usable knowledge base. This article explores the experience of recruiting participants through institutional gatekeepers for research on hard-to-reach populations in social work. The article aims to find out how researchers negotiate access to research participants with institutional gatekeepers. A qualitative research strategy was used to accomplish this goal. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews with researchers revealed that the researchers enter into negotiations with institutional gatekeepers with some idea of the challenges and risks, but in part they enter into the unknown and are forced to make situational assessments in joint interactions. Research evolves and transforms based on how the researcher moves through the research process, what types of gatekeepers the researcher seeks at different stages of the research process and for what purpose. We identified three basic forms of negotiating access with institutional gatekeepers: logistical assistance, barter transaction and trust-based collaboration. This article looks at the different kinds of relationships that exist between researchers, gatekeepers and hard-to-reach population. It examines the power dynamics involved in the recruitment of marginalised groups through gatekeepers in social work research.

Effectiveness of Recommender Systems in Knowledge Discovery

Purpose: The general purpose of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of recommender systems in knowledge discovery.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
 Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to recommender systems in knowledge discovery. The study on the effectiveness of recommender systems in knowledge discovery found that such systems played a pivotal role in facilitating users' exploration of vast information repositories, enabling them to uncover relevant resources and expand their knowledge. It found that recommender systems employing advanced algorithms and personalized techniques demonstrated higher effectiveness in generating relevant recommendations tailored to users' preferences and needs. Additionally, the study highlighted the positive correlation between user engagement metrics and knowledge discovery outcomes, emphasizing the importance of fostering active user participation in the recommendation process. Contextual information was also identified as a crucial factor influencing recommendation effectiveness. Overall, the study underscored the significance of continuous refinement and optimization of recommender system algorithms to enhance knowledge discovery outcomes for users.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Learning theory, Information Foraging theory and Cognitive Load theory may be used to anchor future studies on recommender systems in knowledge discovery. The study provided recommendations to enhance the efficacy of such systems. It suggested adopting hybrid recommender systems that combine collaborative and content-based filtering techniques to offer more accurate and diverse recommendations. Additionally, the study emphasized the importance of integrating contextual information into recommendation algorithms to dynamically adjust recommendations based on situational context. Furthermore, it recommended the use of explainable AI techniques to improve transparency and user understanding of recommendation processes. Maximizing user engagement through active participation and feedback was also highlighted as crucial, along with prioritizing recommendation diversity to foster exploration and serendipitous discovery of new knowledge resources.

Засоби та інструменти для розробки веб-додатку з тестування рівня знань студентів

This work is dedicated to the exploration of modern web application development technologies and their use in assessing knowledge levels. Current and relevant technologies facilitating web application creation were studied, and a comparative analysis of the most popular frameworks for web development was conducted. The research subject of this scientific work revolves around existing contemporary frameworks and tools utilized in developing web applications. The study concentrates on learning about current technologies associated with web application development and their utilization in assessing knowledge levels. A thorough analysis of contemporary methodologies facilitating an effective web-oriented application development process was carried out. The key technologies forming the foundation of web application development were scrutinized and elaborately described, including a comparative analysis of the most widely used frameworks for web development. Tools aiding in development support were examined, and an educational web application for conducting online testing was created. Particular emphasis was given to instruments fostering effective project development and support. The work delved into development support tools and their role in creating web applications. The authors developed an educational web application for online testing, utilizing one of the most popular JavaScript frameworks - Angular. The objective of this work was to select a modern framework for educational web application development. The primary goal was to choose a contemporary framework for crafting an educational web application and develop a fully functional web application ready for use. The outcomes included the creation of a fully functional web application ready for deployment. This web application resulted from a comprehensive study of contemporary frameworks and tools for web application creation. It can be utilized in the educational sphere for conducting tests and assessing knowledge levels, as well as in other fields requiring online testing and the collection of user knowledge information.

Individual and Geospatial Determinants of Health Associated With School-Based Human Papillomavirus Immunization in Alberta: Population-Based Cohort Study.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection causes nearly all cervical cancer cases and is a cause of anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers. The incidence of HPV-associated cancers is inequitable, with an increased burden on marginalized groups in high-income countries. Understanding how immunization status varies by material and social deprivation, health system, and geospatial factors is valuable for prioritizing and planning HPV immunization interventions. The objective of this study was to describe school-based HPV immunization rates by individual and geospatial determinants of health in Alberta, Canada. Health administrative data for male and female individuals born in 2004 in Alberta were used to determine HPV immunization status based on age and the number of doses administered in schools during the 2014/2015-2018/2019 school years. Immunization status and its relationship with material and social deprivation and health system factors were assessed by a logistic regression model. Geospatial clustering was assessed using Getis-Ord Gi* hot spot analysis. Mean scores of material and social deprivation and health system factors were compared between hot and cold spots without full HPV immunization using independent samples t tests. A multidisciplinary team comprising researchers and knowledge users formed a co-design team to design the study protocol and review the study results. The cohort consisted of 45,207 youths. In the adjusted model, the odds of those who did not see their general practitioner (GP) within 3 years before turning 10 years old and not being fully immunized were 1.965 times higher (95% CI 1.855-2.080) than those who did see their GP. The odds of health system users with health conditions and health system nonusers not being fully immunized were 1.092 (95% CI 1.006-1.185) and 1.831 (95% CI 1.678-1.998) times higher, respectively, than health system users without health conditions. The odds of those who lived in areas with the most material and social deprivation not being fully immunized were 1.287 (95% CI 1.200-1.381) and 1.099 (95% CI 1.029-1.174) times higher, respectively, than those who lived in areas with the least deprivation. The odds of those who lived in rural areas not being fully immunized were 1.428 times higher (95% CI 1.359-1.501) than those who lived in urban areas. Significant hot spot clusters of individuals without full HPV immunization exist in rural locations on the northern and eastern regions of Alberta. Hot spots had significantly worse mean material deprivation scores (P=.008) and fewer GP visits (P=.001) than cold spots. Findings suggest that material and social deprivation, health system access, and rural residency impact HPV immunization. Such factors should be considered by public health professionals in other jurisdictions and will be used by the Alberta co-design team when tailoring programs to increase HPV vaccine uptake in priority populations and regions.

Syncretism and Cultural Resilience: The Coexistence and Evolution of Traditional Itolimin and Christian Burial Practices in Esanland, Nigeria

Purpose of the Study: This research aims to uncover how traditional second burial rites coexist with and have adapted to Christian funeral norms, reflecting the socio-religious negotiation in a postcolonial context. Methodology: Employing a qualitative ethnographic approach, the study gathered data through semi-structured interviews with local chiefs, elders, and adults, alongside observations and an extensive review of related literature. Participants were selected based on their deep knowledge of Esan customs and involvement in the Itolimin practice. Main Findings: The study revealed that Itolimin, while embracing certain Christian elements, remains a vital cultural practice that reinforces the community's moral and social order. The rite's evolution showcases the Esan people's ability to blend traditional and Christian values, thereby preserving their cultural identity amidst religious changes. This syncretism illustrates the community's broader cultural resilience and adaptation approach in a rapidly changing religious landscape. Applications of this Study: Insights from this study apply to the broader discourse on funeral practices in postcolonial societies, providing a framework for cultural preservation amidst religious transformation. It is relevant for policymakers and public health officials regarding community health and burial practices. The findings also offer a basis for developing contextual theological education that respects indigenous beliefs within Christian teachings. Novelty/Originality: This study provides a unique contribution to the understanding of funeral rituals within African postcolonial societies by documenting the living tradition of Itolimin. It highlights how syncretism acts as a dynamic cultural force, shaping the way communities like the Esan negotiate identity and religious practice in a contemporary Christian-dominated context.

From active learners to knowledge contributors: authentic assessment as a catalyst for students' epistemic agency

ABSTRACT This study examines how authentic assessment could nurture students’ epistemic agency: their sense of agency in using, evaluating and producing knowledge. Authentic assessment commonly emphasises ‘realism’ and ‘employability skills’. As important as these ideas are, this approach to authentic assessment neglects the key academic value of knowledge, a gap we address by adding epistemology into the conversation. Our qualitative case study explores an archaeology course whose authentic assessment design relied heavily on digital technologies. We empirically analyse students’ sense of epistemic agency after articulating the affordances of the course’s authentic assessment design. Our findings show that digitally-mediated authentic assessment promoted students’ relationship with knowledge in three ways. Students understood themselves as (i) active learners, (ii) active users of knowledge and (iii) epistemic agents who contributed to public archaeological knowledge. We reframe authentic assessment as a catalyst for students’ epistemic agency, enabling students to contribute to social good.

Why do knowledge seekers turn to knowledge contributors in social Q&A platforms? Evidence from China

PurposeBased on the social interaction theory and trust theory, this study investigates the switching of users on social question and answer (Q&A) platforms from knowledge seekers to knowledge contributors.Design/methodology/approachWe used Python to gather data from Zhihu, performed hypothesis testing on the models using Poisson regression and finally conducted a mediation effect analysis.FindingsThe findings reveal that knowledge seeking impacts users' motivation for information interaction, emotional interaction and trust. Notably, information interaction and trust exhibit a chained mediation effect that subsequently influences knowledge contribution.Originality/valueCurrent studies on user knowledge behavior typically examine individual actions, rarely connecting knowledge seeking and knowledge contribution. However, the balance of knowledge inflow and outflow is crucial for social Q&A platforms. To cover this gap, this paper empirically investigates the switching between knowledge seeking and knowledge contribution based on the social interaction theory and trust theory.

Machine learning-based energy monitoring method applied to the HVAC systems electricity demand of an Italian healthcare facility

The buildings energy consumption is a great part of Europe's overall energy demand. The development of diagnostic methods capable of promptly alerting users in case of issues (e.g. mild and progressive decrease in systems components performance) is crucial for the smart management of buildings. Machine learning-based building energy monitoring is a reliable approach for identifying subtle anomalies in the building energy demand behaviour. This study presents the application of a systematic procedure to develop a reliable monitoring method based on machine learning predictive models, ensuring minimal user knowledge requirements. The proposed method applied to the electricity demand of various components of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system of a real Italian healthcare facility. The obtained models are exploited to apply the building energy monitoring method, assessing its capability to highlight mild changes in building energy demand behaviour. Considering that its application on specific system components implies an increased technical and economic effort to carry out data collection, the present work is aimed at assessing the benefits of such applications. Because of its high reproducibility and relatively simple integration into centralized building energy management systems, the proposed method offers a practical solution to enhance the smart management of building energy systems.

Resource-advantage theory, resource-based theory and market-based resources advantage: effect of marketing performance on customer information assets stock and information analysis capabilities

ABSTRACT Transformative developments in the macro environment that lead to transformative changes in the behaviours of firms are an impetus for revisiting extant theories of firm behaviour and revising them, if warranted. In this vein, the article presents an extension of a conceptual model based on resource-advantage theory of competition and resource-based theory of competitive advantage in the context of an interactive digital marketplace. The model delineating the relationship between certain market-based resources (customer information assets, customer information analysis capabilities, and customer knowledge assets), marketing performance and financial performance is extended by delineating the positive effect of marketing performance on a firm’s customer information assets stock and information analysis capabilities in an interactive digital marketplace. Implications for theory and future research are discussed.

Assessment of ocular hygiene and compliance among contact lens users during COVID-19 pandemic

The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of contact lens users among medical students and professionals in a tertiary hospital regarding eye hygiene and access to Ophthalmological medical services in the pandemic.After obtaining consent, a Questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of 2 months among 102 candidates including medical professionals and students in a tertiary hospital using Contact lenses. Chi-square statistics was used to analyze categorical variables, considering p-value<0.05 as statistically significant.83 users (81.37%) reported that their contact lens usage has reduced particularly during the pandemic, of whom 55 users (66.26%) stated to have had a fear of being more susceptible to COVID-19’. A significant number of users (n=35; p value=0.0015) even consider that it is necessary for contact lens users to switch to spectacles. A significant number of users (42 users; 41.18%) have confessed to touching their faces and eyes without proper hand washing. Only 16 participants (15.69%) were aware of the guidelines for contact lens usage and only 30 users (29.41%) availed tele-health services.The existence of poor Contact lens compliance amongst users as reflected by this study and many alike highlights the responsibility of Ophthalmologists to make sure that proper practices are maintained by increasing awareness among the public by addressing their fears and explaining the detrimental effects of unhygienic contact lens usage.